o t e d i u g r You , y t i s r e v i n Stenden U arden and Emmen eeuw

nds: L a l r e h t e N e Th

2 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

Content: Welcome to Stenden

5. Basics needs,

1. The Netherlands:

what to expect

25

6

5.1 Financing your stay

25

1.1 The Netherlands

6

5.2 Working during your study

25

1.2 Leeuwarden

8

5.3 Career in Holland

26

1.3 Emmen

9

5.4 Health care system

26

5.5 The Dutch culture of health

27

Leeuwarden and Emmen

5.6 Accommodation

27

2.1 Stenden University: Hello world! 10

5.7 Transportation

28

2.2 Major-Minor structure

13

5.8 Clothes, what to bring

30

2.3 How does PBL work?

14

5.9 Food

30

2.4 Academic year

15

5.10 Safety

31

2.5 Academic culture

15

2. Studying at Stenden

10

6. Arrangements to make 3. Facilities, services and student organisations

upon arrival 16

3.1 Facilities

16

3.2 i study

16

3.3 Information and Registration Centre

17

3.4 Student Mobility Centre

18

32

 Specific information about Leeuwarden

3.5 Student Counseling Department 18 3.6 Extra services and student organisations Leeuwarden

19

3.7 Extra services and student organisations Emmen

21

7. Arrival and orientation in Leeuwarden

35

7.1 Travelling to Leeuwarden by shuttle bus 

35

4. Preparing your departure

22

7.2 F rom Schiphol to Leeuwarden by train 35

4.1 Residence permit and visa

22

7.3 Making necessary arrangements

36

4.2 Student insurance

23

7.4 Accommodation

36

4.3 Passport

23

7.5 Orientation programmes/study

4.4 Financing

23

4.5 Arranging accommodation

24

start week

37

7.6 Buddies and Hosts

37

7.7 FREC

37

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8. Discover Leeuwarden

38

11. Discover Emmen

48

8.1 Bikes

38

11.1 Bikes

48

8.2 Cultural highlights Leeuwarden 38

11.2 Cultural highlights Emmen

48

8.3 Hotspots Leeuwarden

39

11.3 Hotspots Emmen

49

8.4 Shopping

40

11.4 Sports and Fitness

50

8.5 Sports

40

11.5 Shopping

50

8.6 Tourist information

41 12. Important practical

9. Important practical matters Leeuwarden

matters Emmen

51

42

12.1 Emergency

51

9.1 Emergency 

42

12.2 Medical help

51

9.2 Medical help

42

12.3 Overview of important

9.3 Overview of important

contacts in Emmen

contacts in Leeuwarden

52

44

 pecific S information about Emmen

Specific information about The Dutch culture and language

10. Arrival and orientation in Emmen

45

10.1 Travelling to Emmen by shuttle bus 10.2 Travelling to Emmen by train

45 45

10.3 From NS train station to Stenden University

46

10.4 Making necessary arrangements 46 10.5 Accommodation

46

10.6 Orientation programme

46

10.7 Erasmus Student Host Team

47

13. About the Dutch

53

14. Cultural adjustment

56

15. Dutch for beginners

57

4 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

Dear students, We are honoured you chose Stenden as a destination for your international educational experience. We warmly welcome international students like you; students who are curious, open-minded and eager to expand their horizons. Learning environment At Stenden we do not teach you by telling you what you need to learn. Instead, we want to provide conditions in which you can learn best. How? By offering an inspiring learning environment in which you can fully grow. This, within an atmosphere that makes you feel complete. We want to ‘unleash potential’ and encourage you to use your potential in your career so you can inspire yourself, and others. At the same time we are trying to prepare you for a global society that is rapidly and continuously changing; a society in a world that needs a sustainable approach. World of opportunities Stenden offers 11 international Bachelor and 3 Master programmes, Centres of Expertise and Research Institutes, all in the fields of (Service) Management, Education, Welfare, Economics and Technology. We also have learning companies and student mobility programmes that offer a world of opportunities. One of them is our Grand Tour that enables you to study at one of our campus sites abroad in: South Africa, Bali, Thailand and Qatar. More than 11,000 students representing almost 90 different cultural backgrounds are studying at our Stenden locations. Enjoy the North We would like you to feel comfortable at Stenden. However, we find it also important that you feel at home outside of the University as well. Leeuwarden and Emmen have a lot of places for entertainment, such as: cinemas, bars, museums and theatres. In this guide you will find information about things to do in your spare time; to socialize and to enjoy the beautiful sites of the northern region. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Information and Registration Centre, I Study or the staff members of your study programme. I wish you an inspiring and fulfilling time at Stenden University. I hope that you will be able to build a firm foundation for your future, in your career and in society. Yours sincerely, Leendert Klaassen Chairman of the Executive Board, Stenden University

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This student guide for international students provides you with a summary of essential information about studying at Stenden University, The Netherlands: Leeuwarden and Emmen. Although we also have campuses in Groningen, Meppel and Assen this guide only focuses on our main locations. We trust this guide will help you to adapt to your new environment as quickly and smoothly as possible. If you have questions regarding subjects that are not mentioned in this handbook, please contact the Information and Registration Centre at the i study. We hope you have a pleasant and successful stay at Stenden University. Information and Registration Centre and Student Mobility Centre

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1. The Netherlands: Leeuwarden and Emmen 1.1 The Netherlands The Dutch combine history and traditional culture with innovation, modernism and an international outlook. Thanks to successful export, industries and major multinationals like Philips, ING, Unilever and Akzo Nobel, the Netherlands is more important than the size on the map would suggest. International by definition International trade has been the cornerstone of the Dutch economy since the 17th century, which remains particularly open and internationally-oriented to this day. Located in the delta where several major European rivers flow into the North Sea, Holland was ideally situated to become a centre of trade and transport. Today, Rotterdam is Europe’s largest port and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol one of its main airports. Logistics and distribution are key strengths in an economy which is the 16th largest in the world (in a country of only 16 million people). As well as being a hub for European and intercontinental travel, the Netherlands benefits from dense and efficient road and rail networks. These, combined with the fact that the country is little more than 300km long from north to south and 250 km wide from east to west, make it easy to get around. English spoken here Thanks to the country’s international orientation, other languages are widely spoken - familiarity with French and German is common and you’ll be hard pressed to find anyone you cannot communicate with in English. In fact, around 87% of the Dutch population speak English. So it was natural that the Netherlands should become the first non-English speaking country in the world to offer study programmes taught entirely in English. At Stenden, such study programmes are delivered in part by native English-speaking staff, in order to maintain the highest teaching standards. Open and diverse The Netherlands has long been open to people of non-Dutch origin, historically attracted by freedom of thought and religion as well as commerce. Today it is home to over 190 different nationalities. This cultural diversity has made it a place where

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knowledge, ideas and cultures from all over the world come together. Another distinctive characteristic of the Dutch is their openness in personal interaction and direct manner of acting and speaking. The colour orange The Netherlands is a constitutional monarchy, in which the House of Orange, currently headed by King Willem Alexander, plays a largely symbolic role. However, there is great public enthusiasm for the traditions associated with the monarchy, such as Kings’s Day on 27 April, when the whole country takes to the streets decked out in orange for a gigantic party. Much the same is true when the national football team does well, such as the last World Cup.

Did you know that: ”The Netherlands” and “Holland” are the same country? One quarter of the Netherlands is below sea level? The Dutch are the tallest people in the world? Almost every Dutch person has a bicycle and there are twice as many bikes as cars? The Dutch like to eat raw herring with onions and pickles?

Jie Yang from China ‘‘I enjoy my life in the Netherlands. It is a nice country for living, studying, travelling and social communication. All the cities are very clean and traditionally designed. You don’t see many high buildings here, which make people breath easily’’

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The following links help you to find your way in The Netherlands. International students (the Netherlands organisation for international co-operation in Higher-education) www.nuffic.nl/international-students/living-in-holland Discover the Netherlands: www.holland.com Ministry of foreign affairs: www.government.nl Public transport: www.ns.nl Journey planner: www.journeyplanner.9292.nl

1.2 Leeuwarden Leeuwarden, the capital of the province Friesland, is a small city with a pleasant atmosphere which will make you feel at home soon. Twenty five thousand Dutch and international students study at three separate universities. About 25% of all students are international and earn Leeuwarden the status of a true international student city. The heart of the city is very old and lively with beautiful old buildings, theatres, cinemas, friendly and trendy pubs, museums, great events and a nice city park. Like Amsterdam, Leeuwarden has a long system of canals. Along the canals you can enjoy a good meal or drink on one of the many terraces. The best way to explore the city is on foot. A bicycle ride away and you are in some of the most extensive recreational areas: ‘the Grote and Kleine Wielen’, offering water and sporting activities, or simply an opportunity to relax. In this beautiful area around the lakes you can go canoeing, rowing, swimming and biking. For more information about Leeuwarden visit: www.leeuwardenstudiestad.nl www.vvvleeuwarden.nl

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1.3 Emmen Emmen, a town of nearly 110,000 inhabitants is situated 125 kilometers from Leeuwarden in the south - eastern part of the attractive province of Drenthe in the north of the Netherlands. The town is close to the German border and approximately 2 hours travelling from Amsterdam. It is also the focus of the largest connected industrial area in the north of the country. Emmen is situated on the southernmost top of a chain of low hills called the Hondsrug, an area with many forests that is popular with tourists. This part of the country is also well known for its “hunebedden” (dolmens), Stone Age burial chambers and for ‘DierenparkEmmen’ one of Europe’s finest zoos, which is located in the centre of Emmen.

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2. Studying at Stenden 2.1 Stenden University: Hello World! Stenden University of Applied Sciences is an internationally oriented university with over 1,000 staff and 11,000 students of whom over 2900 are internationals. With 90 different nationalities represented, Stenden is a truly international multicultural community. We have International Branch Campuses in Bangkok (Thailand), Doha (Qatar), Port Alfred (South Africa), Bali (Indonesia) and in the Netherlands: Leeuwarden (head office), Groningen, Meppel, Assen and Emmen. Specific study programmes are offered, from associate degree to master’s degree level, all within the fields of (Service) Management, Education, Welfare, Economics and Technology. It’s your future Our goal is to prepare effective international managers for leadership responsibilities in a complex multicultural world and a rapidly changing marketplace. We want to be sure you are ready to enter the world of work immediately after graduation. We therefore teach you to work in teams and also to take initiative yourself trough Problem based learning (PBL). We give you the opportunity to work in our acclaimed Learning Companies - true-to-life businesses where you accumulate valuable and relevant work experience while studying. We encourage you to study abroad on our Grand Tour or an exchange programme in your second or third year minor semester. In your final year we help you find an internship place - which could also be abroad - to complete your all-round education. The learning companies-theory meets practice The in-house Learning Companies are professional training enterprises for various Stenden study programmes. Here, students not only receive regular tuition, they also benefit from training in real organisations, working on real assignments from external customers and gaining enormous professional experience. The Learning Companies include our own four-star hotel, including restaurants, a conference centre, the Limius research institute, the university canteens and a studio/ production facility for media work. Each student programme has its own dedicated Learning Company or dedicated practical component. Because we want to contribute to a better world, all our Learning Companies are internationally and ecologically oriented.

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Study abroad: A world of opportunities The Grand Tour offers you the possibility to study at our International Branch campuses in South Africa, Qatar, Bali or Thailand. (www.stenden.com/grandtour) You can enhance your international education and work experience with an industrial placement at one of the companies we have links with around the world - such as Unilever, ABN Amro, IKEA, KLM, Golden Tulip and Hilton Hotels. You can expand your international education by taking an exchange semester at one of our partner universities in countries like the US, Australia, Chile, Sweden, the UK, France, Spain and many others. (www.stenden.com/exchange)

For a complete and current overview of our bachelor, master and short programmes, please visit our website: www.stenden.com > programmes

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2.2 Major-Minor structure During your study you can devote part of the regular study load towards a specialisation. This specialisation is referred to as your minor. The major that you undertake will be the main focus of your study, for example, International Tourism Management or International Business and Languages. The major deals with those subjects and disciplines that are requirements of the professional field you are aiming to work in. The major deals with those subjects and disciplines that are particular to the industry you are being educated about. The major consists of the foundation phase, the main phase (i.e. the first 2,5 years of the course) and the internship. You need 210 credits to complete your major. The minor consists of subjects that give depth or breadth to your course. It may also count as preparation towards a possible Master’s programme you might like to take. The minors are offered in the third year and represent a study load of either a single minor of 30 credits or two minors of 15 credits each.

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2.3 How does PBL work? Every week you meet in small groups of 12 to a maximum of 15 students. You systematically work together on analysing a case, brainstorming, setting learning goals, studying and coming up with creative solutions to problems which reflect real-life situations. All these activities are guided and supervised by a tutor. In the first meeting, together with the other students in your PBL group, you start by analysing the case. You discuss how to approach a problem and the subjects on which you need further information. Then you’ll go to the multimedia library to find books, magazines, videos and websites that you use to solve the problem. A chairperson leads the PBL-meetings and the minutes are recorded by a minute taker. The tutor provides support to the group learning process and gives feedback on the academic progress. In the second meeting you present your solutions to the problem together with your fellow students. You supplement each other’s information and encourage one another to find additional information or to think further about the problem. Everybody has to contribute because you are mutually dependent on each other’s prior knowledge, personal experiences, view on subject at hand and the knowledge acquired to solve the problem. PBL requires effective planning, clear arrangements and considerable self-discipline.

Agnes from Germany ‘’I find PBL one of the most useful and helpful classes at Stenden. It requires selfstudy, but you also have to share your findings and ideas with others. PBL sessions make me more confident to work in a group. It is nice to learn from each other.’’

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Larry Nkacha from Cameroon ‘’Stenden University is very welcoming. It provides a quiet and conducive environment. The lectures are really punctual and the students are dedicated in studying’’.

Did you know that: -About 90 nationalities study at Stenden -Every year about 500 students from Stenden Netherlands, go on Grand Tour to one of our International Branch Campuses in South Africa, Qatar, Bali and Thailand -Every year students at Stenden University Leeuwarden plan their own International Day to tell more about their own cultures.

2.4 Academic year Every academic year consists of 2 semesters. Each semester consists of 2 modules of 9 weeks. Every module deals with a central topic on which all theory classes, PBL cases and tests are focused.

2.5 Academic culture At Stenden the relationship between students and teachers is normally quite informal and equal. As a student you are always encouraged to ask questions during lectures and also outside of the classroom. It is acceptable to express your opinion on the themes discussed during the courses. The independent nature of studies at Stenden presupposes you to show initiative and take responsibility in the planning of your studies.

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3. Facilities, services and student organisations 3.1 Facilities Stenden has all modern facilities you need for your study like a study landscape, a library, a trendy canteen, a Stenden shop and a media counter. Stenden Leeuwarden also has a contemplation centre, a hairdresser, a bank shop and a job agency.

3.2 i study i study provides students with specialist support and guidance concerning their studies. They offer the following services/assistance: Registration and de-registration Studielink Progress -registration of study results Information about Stenden study programs Information about study abroad/exchange/Grand Tour Appointments with the student counselors (class)room reservations Library-services (Assen, Emmen, Groningen and Meppel) Especially for international students Reception and orientation for newly arriving international students Preliminary information on visa, permits and other immigration matters Information about health services and insurance Contact details Leeuwarden You can find i study Leeuwarden in room 0.30 (across central reception) Opening hours: Monday to Friday From 8.30 to 16.30 hour E-mail: [email protected] Tel: + (0) 58 244 1200

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Contact details Emmen You can find i study Emmen in room 086 (across study landscape) Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8.00 to 16.30 hour E-mail: [email protected] Tel: +31 (0) 591 85 31 92

Ayudh Bhattarai fromNepal ‘’Before I came to Stenden and the Netherlands I expected to have a hard time settling in, but the amazing international environment and the friendly people of the i study made it very easy.’’

3.3 Information and Registration Centre The Information and Registration Centre takes care of the preparations for your stay in the Netherlands. All international students are in contact with the office before they arrive in the Netherlands. The Information and Registration Centre gives information on application, admission, financial matters and arranges the visa you require, accommodation and more. Contact details: Tel: +31 (0)58 244 1940 E-mail: [email protected]

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3.4 Student Mobility Centre The Student Mobility Centre makes all necessary arrangements for incoming Exchange and Grand Tour students during their semester at Stenden. Contact details: You can visit the student mobility in room 0.43 at campus Leeuwarden Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 17:00 hour E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] Website: www.stenden.com/exchange or www.stenden.com/grandtour Emmen students can contact incoming exchange co-coordinator Linda Coenen (for educational matters) Email: [email protected]

3.5 Student Counseling Department For specific questions about your personal situation for which you have not found an answer at i study or at your institute, you may contact one of our student counselors. They can provide you with information, advice, support or counseling when you have: Questions about your study career (doubts whether you have chosen the right study-programme, a second course, advice about industrial placement and elective modules) Problems with time management and study skills (training is offered) Personal problems (leaving home, fear of failure, coping with mourning, stress, relation problems, etc.) Study delay caused by special circumstances Studying with a disability/limitations in functioning Conflicts, objections, appeals and Binding Study Advice If you are in need of psychological help the counselors can help you with a referral. The student counselors work independently and everything you tell them will be treated as confidential. Privacy is guaranteed. You can contact the counselors by making an appointment at i study or by e-mail [email protected] If you have special needs (because of a handicap, a chronic illness, dyslexia) you can contact Mrs. Hermien Moning (Leeuwarden) or Mrs. Nynke Vink (Emmen). They will be able to advise you on special arrangements and help you with the study problems.

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3.6 Extra services and student organisations Leeuwarden Hestia - A home away from home Hestia Student Lounge is located just a hop away from the main entrance of the campus in Leeuwarden and consists of two houses. Since the lounge was opened in 2002 students can visit the facilities daily from 11:00 AM till 06:00 PM to study, relax, socialise or meet with their study groups. Coffee, tea and free WiFi is always available. Students are also welcome to organize their own events such as dinners or even their private birthday party. The idea is to provide ‘a home away from home’ for Dutch and international students within an intercultural atmosphere. www.hestialounge.nl

ENACTUS Participation in Enactus provides university students with the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in their communities, while gaining the experience, skills and contacts necessary to build a successful career. As a member of an Enactus team, you’ll be joining a worldwide network of more than 57,000 other students who are each making their own contribution toward the shared mission of creating a better world. It’s an experience that will change the lives of those in need and quite possibly your own as well. http://enactus.org/country/netherlands/ www.facebook.com/EnactusStenden

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FREC Whilst you have come to study you must not ignore your social life. The Foreign Relations Committee (FREC) provides a social programme especially for exchange and Grand Tour students with weekend trips, parties, sports events, dinners etc. FREC wants to support the exchange and Grand Tour students in particular, from the day of arrival until the day of departure. www.frecleeuwarden.nl EXPECT Expect is a Group of people who organise activities with an extra layer. You can join this group to do workshops, a holiday-volunteer market, social projects, acting activities, journeys and other cultural and ideological activities. All students in Leeuwarden are welcome and you don’t have to pay contribution or apply for a membership. You can join most activities for free, but sometimes you have to pay a small contribution. www.expect-leeuwarden.nl Leeuwarden Studie stad Leeuwarden Studiestad is an organisation especially for students. The main goal of this organisation is to make Leeuwarden the best student city of the Netherlands. They organise activities and events for students with the purpose to make the city vibrant and alive. Besides the promotion of Leeuwarden as a student city, they sell the sports card. With this card students can choose from a huge number of sports for a very low price. www.leeuwardenstudiestad.nl

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3.7 Extra services and student organisations Emmen Erasmus Student Host Team: For Erasmus Exchange students The Erasmus student host team of Stenden University Emmen welcomes incoming Erasmus Exchange students. Each exchange student is contacted by a Stenden host student some 2 months before arrival in Emmen. This host student is your tutor/ buddy during your entire stay in Emmen and helps you to understand the educational organisation, the rules and regulations and of course introduce you to his/her social network. The country club International students are invited to join the country club which will organise theme evenings introducing cultures from around the world. Dionysus Student Association Dionysus is the Emmen Student Association which organises events and parties. Join Stenden Dionysus on Facebook. http://nl-nl.facebook.com/svDionysus ENACTUS Participation in Enactus provides university students with the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in their communities, while gaining the experience, skills and contacts necessary to build a successful career. As a member of an Enactus team, you’ll be joining a worldwide network of more than 57,000 other students who are each making their own contribution toward the shared mission of creating a better world. It’s an experience that will change the lives of those in need and quite possibly your own as well. http://enactus.org/country/netherlands/ www.facebook.com/EnactusStenden

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4. Preparing your departure 4.1 Residence permit and visa Citizen of one of the EU/EEA countries If you are a citizen of the EU/EEA countries, a valid passport or identity card is required. Visa or residence permit is not required. Non-EU/EEA citizens who do require a visa and residence permit If you want to Study in the Netherlands longer than three months and you are not a citizen of a country of the European Union or European Economic Area country (EU/ EEA) Australia, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Vatican City, USA, South Korea or Switzerland you need to apply for a visa and residence permit. Non-EU/EEA citizens who do not require a visa but do need a residence permit For students from Australia, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Vatican State, South Korea and the USA, who stay longer than 3 months in the Netherlands a residence permit without visa is required. Students who require a visa and/or residence permit: Stenden has to arrange visa and/or residence permit applications for you. You may not do this yourself. Contact IRC International ([email protected]) for more information about the procedure. In order to apply for a visa and/or residence permit you must provide Stenden with: Copy of passport Proof of sufficient financial means Passport photo (check regulations form) Photo card (provided by Stenden) Authorisation form (provided by Stenden) Antecedents statement (provided by Stenden)

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4.2 Student insurance You are required to be insured for medical expenses during your entire stay in the Netherlands. You should check, before coming to the Netherlands, whether your insurance policy covers a stay abroad for a long period of time, and bring the appropriate documents with you. You should at least be covered for all medical costs without an applicable maximum. Travel insurance alone is not enough. If you have worldwide coverage at your own country’s healthcare system, you should bring an E-111-form from your authorities before coming to the Netherlands. (We strongly advise you to take out an insurance against liability). At i study they can arrange medical/liability/repatriation insurance for you. Students who enter the Netherlands on a visa MVV and for whom health insurance coverage is obligatory in order to be able to apply for a residence permit, can expect the health insurance costs (medical/liability/repatriation) to be included on their invoice. Please note that under normal circumstances this insurance is only valid after your arrival in the Netherlands.

4.3 Passport Your passport or a national identity card from one of the EU countries must be valid for at least one year after your arrival.

4.4 Financing If you are looking for financial support you can check the online search engine www.grantfinder.nl. Also check the possibilities for grants from your local government, your home institution or any other funding organisation. Possibilities for grants from the Dutch government for regular Dutch degree programmes are limited. Non European students are not eligible for student grants and loans that the Dutch government provides for permanent accommodation.

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4.5 Accommodation Kamer Bemiddeling Nederland Kamer Bemiddeling Nederland (KBN) is the housing partner of Stenden. KBN offers students a wide range of furnished rooms in Leeuwarden, Emmen and Meppel. Please note that in Leeuwarden only Non-European students and exchange students will be guaranteed of a room when they book through KBN. European students can book a room on availability. To be able to book a room, please register yourself on their website. In Emmen and Meppel all international students (EU, Non-EU and exchange) are guaranteed of a room when they book through KBN. For more information please check the following websites: Leeuwarden: www.roomleeuwarden.nl Emmen: www.roomemmen.nl You can also contact: [email protected] Please watch the introduction movie on their website. It clearly explains how to book a room. Housing Anywhere Housing Anywhere is a student-to-student platform where demand & supply of short term accommodation can find each other. Students who go abroad for an exchange semester, Grand Tour or internship can sublet their rooms via www.HousingAnywhere.com. Incoming exchange and Grand Tour students that come to Leeuwarden and Emmen can rent those rooms. This website is free to use and it operates on a student-to-student basis.

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5. Basic needs, what to expect: 5.1 Financing your stay You will incur regular expenses for food, public transport, books, clothes, and leisure activities. You also need to take into account the costs for housing and insurance. Experience has shown that students living and studying in Leeuwarden and Emmen for one year spend between ¤ 800 and ¤ 1000 a month.

5.2 Working during your study If you want to work during your study, to get a little extra income, please be informed that some regulations may be applicable to your situation. Whether you will need a work permit depends on your nationality. If you are from the EU/EEA (but not from Bulgaria, Romania or Croatia) or from Switzerland, you are free to work without restrictions. If you are from Bulgaria, Romania or Croatia, or from a country outside the EU/ EEA or Switzerland, there are some restrictions if you want to take a job next to your studies. You need a permit and you can only work for a maximum of ten hours a week or, instead, you can work full-time during the summer months June, July and August. A work permit needs to be obtained via the employer. The application

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must be accompanied by a copy of your residence permit for study purposes and a statement from Stenden confirming that you are enrolled you are enrolled as a student. It will take about five weeks to process the application. Insurances and jobs If you start a part-time or summer job, you have to take out a basisverzekering (Dutch public healthcare insurance) since you are no longer just a student, but also an employee. This applies no matter how many hours you work per week. If you receive a letter from the College van Zorgverzekeringen (CVZ) that states that you are not covered under health care insurance and that according to Dutch law you have to take out a Dutch public health care insurance (basiszorgverzekering) immediately. If you receive this letter you always need to take action within three months, or you will receive a fine of around ¤ 350. You need to either take out a Dutch public health care insurance or you need to ask the SVB to judge whether you are obliged to do so. For detailed information check www.studyinholland.nl/about-study-in-holland/faq

For more information download the factsheet www.nuffic.nl/international-students/living-in-holland

Useful websites for job searching: www.undutchables.nl/ (English) www.leukestudentenbaan.nl/ (Dutch) www.randstad.nl/ (Dutch) www.monsterboard.nl

5.3 Career in Holland If you're a foreign student or graduate and thinking about starting a career in the Netherlands, the following pages will give you all information you need to know about career opportunities after your studies. www.hollandalumni.nl/career/work-in-holland.

5.4 Health care system Dutch health care is based on first-line care provided by a general practitioner/doctor who will refer you to a hospital or first aid unit only when he/she is unable to provide

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Wang Chen from China ‘’I enjoy my job as a dish washer in a Chinese restaurant. I was happy when I found this job, because it is important for me to work besides my studies in the Netherlands.’’

the treatment or care you require. Stenden has made arrangements for international students with some general practitioners in Leeuwarden and Emmen. See chapter 9 and 12

5.5 The Dutch culture of health Compared to many other European nations, The Dutch are conservative with respect to the use of medication. Most medicines other than simple medication for a cold or headache, require a doctor’s prescription. Doctors often treat their patients with advise rather medication. Thus it happens more often that you will be told to go home and rest and give the body time to heal itself.

5.6 Accommodation In Leeuwarden and Emmen students do not live on campus but have their own room. Most students live in or near Leeuwarden or Emmen. You may have to share the shower, toilet, kitchen and living room with other students. Also, the rooms may be quite small in comparison to what you are used to. It is common for men and women to live together in a shared house. If this is a problem for you, you should make this known as soon as possible. The costs for a room in Leeuwarden and Emmen vary from ¤250 to ¤500 a month. Before you take on a room, make sure you check what bills are included in the rent, as this may have a large impact on your budget. Some accommodations include gas, electricity, TV and Internet in the rent, for others you are expected to pay them separately.

28 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

Yousef Bouali from Algeria ‘’It was really nice to live in a SSH accommodation during the first year of my study. It is more easy to meet new people. I became friends with so many people from different nationalities.’’

5.7 Transportation Trains The public transport system in the Netherlands is very efficient. Frequent train connections are scheduled to all larger towns. If you frequently travel by train, you can acquire discount arrangements (kortingsregelingen) The Dutch Railways (NS) publishes a booklet in English, called ‘Holland by Rail’, which contains information on a variety of services, including special railway passes and tickets. This booklet is available free of charge at NS stations. It will cost you ¤ 55 to obtain a discount card that offers 40% reduction on the cost of a train ticket on national routes from Monday to Friday from 9 ‘o clock onwards. The same card will offer you that discount at all times on weekends and national holidays. The ticket can be purchased at the service desk at the train stations. You can find departure and arrival times as well as price information on www.ns.nl. The site also features information on international trains. Bus To pay for busses, trams and subways in the Netherlands you need an OV-chipcard. The OV-chipcard is a smart card which has the size of a bank card and contains an invisible chip. The OV-chipkaart can be uploaded with credit in euro’s which you can travel anywhere within The Netherlands, or with a travel product such as a single or season ticket. There are personal, anonymous, and disposable cards. The bus station in Leeuwarden situated next to the railway station, can provide you with more information and timetables for bus services. www.ov-chipkaart.nl

GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY 29

Driving a car As a temporary resident you may use your own national driver’s license, as long as you are from one of the European Union member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway. However, it is also helpful to have an international license alongside your national one. If you have a valid driver’s license that was issued outside one of the countries of the EU, then you can use it for another 185 days after becoming a resident in the Netherlands. During that period you must obtain a Dutch driving license. For more info check www.rdw.nl Bikes If you really want to get a taste of the Dutch culture and to get around quick and easy, buy yourself a bicycle and a good lock for it. You can buy a good second-hand bike between ¤ 50 -100. You can buy a second hand bike in several shops around town. Please note that lots of bikes are stolen in the centre of Leeuwarden and Emmen, so make sure you have heavy locks on your bike and always attach it to a bicycle stand or a fence.

30 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

5.8 Clothes, what to bring Dutch weather can be unpredictable. A day that starts out sunny can end with rain and wind and vice versa, so wise people learn to dress in layers which they can take off as the day changes. In the winter (December- February) it can be cold. There can be snow and freezing temperatures. This can last for a couple of days or weeks. Because of the sharp wind the winter cold can be penetrating. You will need a warm winter coat and at least one woolen sweater. Furthermore, woolen socks, gloves, head cover, scarves, and other small items of warm clothing are a must. In the summer months, June and August, there will be a few fairly hot days (above 25C / 77F is considered a heat wave). You will want to wear summer clothes, but it is still a good idea to have a lightweight, waterproof jacket or coat at hand. In the months in between the temperature will vary between about 5C and 15C.

5.9 Food The traditional Dutch cuisine is healthy but plane; people eat a lot of bread and a lot of fresh vegetables. The Dutch custom is three meals a day, two of which is cold and consists mainly of bread. Breakfast generally consists of tea and sliced bread, which is eaten with cheese, thinly sliced cold meat, or jam. Most people have sandwiches for lunch, with the addition of perhaps soup, a salad or fruit. The Dutch often have dinner rather early, usually around 18.30. A hot meal used to consist of mostly potatoes, vegetables and meat or fish. Nowadays dishes from all over the world have found their way into the Dutch kitchens. Leeuwarden and Emmen are student towns, with plenty of restaurants that cater for young people on a tight budget. You can also find take- a way’s where freshly cooked meals can be bought to take home.

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5.10 Safety Leeuwarden and Emmen are cities which can be considered as relatively safe. But you still have to be sensible about your personal safety. It is also wise to become familiar with your own neighborhood so you can judge for yourself what would be safe to do there. In general you should avoid: Carrying large sums of money Walking alone after dark Leaving your apartment door unlocked Drinking alcohol in public places (except in bars/discotheques) Using drugs (or mix alcohol with drugs) Hitchhike

32 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

6. Arrangements to make upon arrival At the start of your stay in the Netherlands you will be required to make a number of arrangements. The team of i study will help you to make necessary arrangements. Essentially there are 5 steps:

STEP 1: Registration in Progress (schoolsystem) At i study they will check your ‘status’ and if you have completed all your requirements they will make your registration definite.

STEP 2: Opening a bank account You will need a current bank account to manage your day-to-day finances. Required documents for opening a bank account: 1) Stenden Letter of offer 2) Housing contract 3) Passport/Identity Card Banking in Leeuwarden ABN AMRO BANK Address: Stenden University Opening hours: Monday till Thursday from 09.00 till 17.00 hrs. Closed on Fridays INGBANK Address: Zuiderplein 6 Leeuwarden Opening hours: Monday till Friday from 09.00 till 17.00

GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY 33

Banking Emmen INGBANK Address: Marktplein 150 Emmen Openinghours: Monday to Friday from 09.00 until 17.00 hrs. ABN AMRO BANK Address: Baander 23 Emmen Openinghours: Monday to Friday from 09:00 until 17:00

STEP 3: Register at Town Hall You need to register with the local authorities (GBA) at the municipality office. Please bring to the Town Hall: 1) Your passport/identity-card 2) Housing contract 3) Original birth certificate (legalized) by the Dutch embassy in your home country. 4) Decision letter residence permit from IND (Non European students Please note: In case you change your address in Leeuwarden, always change this on studielink. Town Hall Leeuwarden Address: Oldehoofsterkerkhof 2 Opening hours: Monday 10.00 till 16.00 Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 09.00 till 16.00 On Thursday from 08.00 till 19.30

34 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

Town Hall Emmen Address: Raadhuisplein 1 Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 08.30 until 16.30 On Thursday from 08.30 until 16.30

STEP 4: X-ray (tuberculosis test) Students who entered the Netherlands with a visa have to go to the GGD to have an X-ray taken for a tuberculosis test. It is important to have yourself tested as soon as possible in order to prevent delay in the procedure of applying for your residence permit. What to bring to the GGD Appendix Tuberculosis Declaration of the application forms for the residence permit. This form will be handed out at i study. Valid passport. The office of the GGD in Leeuwarden is located at Harlingertrekweg 58, nearby station. Also see: www.ggdfryslan.nl The office of the GGD in Emmen is located at parallelweg 36, nearby the station.

STEP 5: Pick up a residence permit from IND (Non European Students) You need to collect your residence permit from the nearest IND-office, which is in the city of Zwolle. For guidelines you can visit i study!

GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY 35

7. Arrival and orientation in Leeuwarden 7.1 Travelling to Leeuwarden by shuttle bus For Non-European students, the Schiphol taxi will be arranged by the Information and Registration Centre, only if they will receive your arrival form at least 5 working days before your arrival date. The IRC department will send you a confirmation of the taxi-booking including clear instructions about where to report yourself for the shuttle service.

7.2 From Schiphol to Leeuwarden by train If you arrive at Schiphol by plane (Amsterdam Airport) you can get on a (semi-) direct train in the airport terminal. At Schiphol Airport you follow the signs that say ‘To the trains’ and then proceed to the ticket window/office (marked as ‘Nederlandse Spoorwegen’. Buy a one-way ticket (‘enkele reis’) second class to Leeuwarden. A ticket costs about 25 euro. Be aware you might have to change trains in Amersfoort (and sometimes in Zwolle) railway station to travel to Leeuwarden. When you get on the train in Amersfoort or Schiphol Airport, make sure you are in the rear-most section of the train. The train splits in two parts in Zwolle and the front half goes to Groningen instead of Leeuwarden. You can check the destination of the train by the sign on the train (next to the door) or ask someone at the platform or in the train. The journey by train will take approximately 2.5 hours. If you arrive at the Central Station in Leeuwarden, you can take a bus to Stenden. Bus number 12 goes to Stenden. (Busstop Kenniscampus) For the bus you are required to buy a bus ticket.

36 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY



For more information and time schedules you can surf to www.9292ov.nl (traveling information) www.arriva.nl (bus information) or www.ns.nl (train information)

7.3 Making necessary arrangements Upon your arrival at Stenden, you have to go to i study to make all necessary arrangements. See chapter 6 for arrangements you have to make upon arrival.

7.4 Accommodation It’s important that you have arranged your accommodation before arriving in Leeuwarden. We recommend you to arrive between Monday-Friday to be assured of a warm welcome. Weekend arrivals are not advised, as we cannot guarantee that you will receive your key upon arrival and it might be necessary to stay in a hotel for a few days on your own expense.

In case you have not arranged accommodation, you can book a room in one of these affordable hotels:: Hotel ‘t Anker www.hotelhetanker.nl Tel: 0031 (0)58 212 52 16 Studiorent Bed&Breakfast Bordineweg 113, 8913 AN Leeuwarden Stenden University hotel www.stendenuniversityhotel.nl

GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY 37

7.5 Orientation programmes/study start week Depending on your chosen course of study, you will participate in an orientation programme for international students, lasting from one day up to more than one week. The Programme co-coordinator/ course department will inform you about this. Exchange, Grand Tour and PREP students have an orientation programme as well.

7.6 Hostprogram In several of the Stenden programmes, fellow students coach new incoming international students. A host helps a student with regard to understanding the educational programme such as the organisation of a module, rules and regulations, how to find certain information, A host is also trained to help new students finding environment. So, hosts are more concerned with your educational programme, whilst buddies help you to get around and help you to understand the environment.

7.7 FREC Whilst you have come to study, you must not ignore your social life. The Foreign Relations committee FREC provides a social programme especially for exchange and Grand Tour students with weekend trips, parties, sports events, dinners etc. FREC wants to support the exchange and Grand Tour students, from the day of arrival until the day of departure. FREC helps with getting your room keys, shows you the city and the institute and helps you with the systems at Stenden.www.frecleeuwarden.nl

Nena Majka from Germany ‘’When I started to study at Stenden, I was scared of not knowing where to go and what to do. The host programme leads everyone in a good way so you don’t feel lost.‘’

Leeuwarden

their way, soften the culture shock and introduce students to all aspects of their new

38 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

8. Discover Leeuwarden 8.1 Bikes The best way to get around in Leeuwarden is on foot or by bike. You can find cheap second-hand bikes at the following addresses: Rijwielhandel nieuwe buren 128, Leeuwarden ’t Vliet Fietshuis, Zuidvliet 116, Leeuwarden

8.2 Cultural highlights in Leeuwarden The highlight of the year is the Liberation festival in May. Some other festivals in Leeuwarden: Summer Platform: small scale music events in the ‘Prinsentuin’ King’s Day in April Street Show in May Culinary Festival in September Northern Film Festival in November

GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY 39

8.3 Hotspots Leeuwarden Friesmuseum: Wilhelminaplein 92



Nature museum: Schoenmakersperk 2

Cinemas

Cinema: Nieuwstad 38-42



Tivoli: Nieuwstad 85-87



Filmhuis: Wilhelminaplein 92

Theatres

Harmonie: Ruiterskwartier 4



Music Centre Music centre Schaaf: Breedstraat 48



Pop Podium Romein: Bagijnestraat 59



De Gloppe: Poststraat 21



Scooters: Ruiterskwartier 61-63

Libraries

City Library: Wirdummerdijk 34



Provincial Library: Boterhoek 1

Affordable Restaurants Spinoza: Eewal 50-52

De lachende koe: Grote Hoogstraat 16-20



Stadscafe Leeuwarden: Nieuwestad 75



Cafe Cafe: Ruiterskwartier 107



Jasmine Garden: Groningerstraatweg 10



Pizzeria Pompei: Groentemarkt 7

Having a drink

Dikke van Dale: Nieuwestad 69



Stadscafe: Nieuwestad 75



Irish Pub Paddy O`Ryan: Tweebaksmarkt 49



Cafe Cafe: Ruiterskwartier 107



De Walrus: Gouveneursplein 37



Ouwe stoep: Oude Doelesteeg 6



Doozo: Ruiterskwarier 93

Dancing/disco

Club Red: Ruiterskwartier 91



Shooters XL: Ruiterskwartier 95

Leeuwarden

Museum

40 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

Salar Owrang from Iran ‘’Leeuwarden is a small, quiet, but cozy town, full of friendly people. Winters in Leeuwarden can be quite cold. You can have a good time in the pubs in the city centre.‘’

8.4 Shopping There are three convenient places to buy food for self-catering: the open- air market, a supermarket or small specialty shops. In general shops are open on Tuesday till Saturday from 09.30 till 18:00. On Mondays shops are open from 13.00 till 18:00 Most supermarkets are open until 20.00 or even 22.00. At Thursday-evening all shops in Leeuwarden will stay open until 21.00. Every last Sunday of the month most shops are open.

8.5 Sports As a student in Leeuwarden you can work-out at a low price. Leeuwarden Studiestad is offering you the opportunity to play sports alone or in a group. There is a vast variety of sports including fitness, boot camp, zumba, basketball, futsal, swimming and kickboxing. There are regular sports events and workshops for students such as a futsalcompetition, badminton and squash competition. You have a choice of two sports cards: Sports Card Sports Card Fitness (unlimited fitness included) For more information about sports In Leeuwarden check: www.leeuwardenstudiestad.nl

GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY 41

Recreational areas A bicycle ride away from Leeuwarden you can find some excellent recreational areas: The Grote and Kleine Wielen, offering water and land sporting activities, or simply an opportunity to relax. In the area around the lakes you can go canoeing, rowing, swimming and biking.

8.6 Tourist information The Tourist Information Office (VVV) is situated in the Achmea Tower (The highest building of Leeuwarden). At the office you can find information about the city and the province Friesland. You can sign up for tours and excursions. At the VVV you can also buy souvenirs. and click on the English button.

Leeuwarden

For more information you can go to the website www.vvvleeuwarden.nl

42 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

9. Important practical matters 9.1 Emergency In case of an accident or an (urgent) emergency call the national emergency number 112. You will be asked if you need the police, fire brigade or ambulance. Hospital MCL: Henri Dunantweg 2 Leeuwarden Police (no emergency): 0900 8844 Office location Heer Ivostraatje 3 Leeuwarden Holstermeerweg 3 (also Immigration Service) In the Netherlands you are legally required to carry a photo ID at all times. Please make sure you always carry your ID card with you.

9.2 Medical help Unlike in many countries you will always need to see a general physician first before you attend a specialist. Even if you think you need a specialist physician they will only see you if you have a referral note. other doctors: Dr. A.J. Bosscha Medical Centre “de Zwaaij”



Coopmanstraat 36, Leeuwarden (Near soccer stadium ‘’Cambuur’’) Phone: 058 212 66 54 Urgent cases: 058 212 15 43 Call between 8:00 and 10:00 to make an appointment Call between 11:30 and 12:30 to have a consult by phone Dr. B.R. Westerman ♂ and Dr. Boek ♀ Medical Centre “de Zwaaij” Coopmansstraat 50, Leeuwarden (near soccer stadium “Cambuur”) Phone: 058 212 46 80 Urgent cases: 058 216 11 20 Call between 8:00 and 10:00 to make an appointment or a to have a consult by phone And between 13.00 and 14.00 hrs. (Except for Thursdays)

GUIDE TO Stenden University 43

During the evening and in weekends there is a medical centre (Dokterswacht) at the hospital you can visit, next to the emergency room. Tel. 0900-112 71 112. Only go there if you are seriously ill, because this is only for emergencies. Visiting the dentist Dentist Practice Hooidam Hooidam 1 8918 GK Leeuwarden 058 213 88 65 / urgent cases: 0900-2153111 Practice is open: Every day from 08:00 till 16.30 Appointments can be made between 08:00 till 12.30 and 12:30 till 16:30

The doctors and hospital will send the invoice directly to the insurance company. If you go to the dentist you usually have to pay the bill upfront and claim the costs from the insurance company later. For (other) medical expenses you can use the declaration form. Please fill out this form and send it to the Insurance Company as mentioned. Be sure to make copies because letters do get lost in the mail. You can get a declaration form at the i study or you can download them from www.myaon.nl

Leeuwarden

What to do when you have something to claim (AON insurance)

44 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

9.3 Overview of important contacts in Leeuwarden Who/ what

address

General Emergency number

Contact details 112

Police

Heer Ivostraatje 3

0900 8844

Fire department

Aldlansdyk 11

(058) 299 66 99

Doctor A.J. Bosscha

Coopmansstraat 36

(058) 212 66 54

Doctor B.R. Westerman

Coopmannstraat 50

(058) 212 46 80

Hospital MCL

Henri Dunantweg 2

(058) 286 66 66

Doctors Office Emergency after 17.00 hrs and during weekends

Henri Dunantweg 2

0900 112 71 112

Dentist practice Hooidam

Hooidam 11

(058) 213 88 65

Town hall

Oldehoofsterkerkhof 2

From abroad: (058) 233 88 88 In the Netherlands (14 058)

Health Department (GGD)

Harlingertrekweg 58

088 22 99 222

Electricity Company Essent

Mr. P.J. Troelstraweg 147a

www.essent.nl 0900-1550

Cable Company UPC

Ruiterskwartier 127

www.upc.nl 0900 223 37 77

Vitens Water Company- 24 hours

Snekertrekweg 61

0900-0650 www.9292.nl/en 0900-9292

Travel information Tourist information centre

Sophialaan 4

www.vvvleeuwarden.nl

ABN AMRO BANK

In building Stenden university

0900-0024

ING BANK

Zuiderplein 6

www.ing.nl

Tax office

Tesselschadestraat 4

www.belastingdienst.nl 0800-0543

TNT Post services

P.J. Troelstraweg 15 Schrans 101 Bilgaardpassage 77 Cambuurplein 66

www.tntpost.nl

Kamerbemiddeling Leeuwarden

Nieuweweg 13

www.roomleeuwarden.nl [email protected] www.housinganywhere.com

Housing Anywhere i study

Rengerslaan 8, room 0.30

[email protected] (058) 244 1100/1200

GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY 45

10.1 Travelling to Emmen by shuttle bus For Non-European students, the Schiphol taxi will be arranged by the Information and Registration Centre, only if they will receive your arrival form at least 5 working days before your arrival date. The IRC department will send you a confirmation of the taxi-booking including clear instructions about where to report yourself for the shuttle service.

10.2 Travelling to Emmen by train After your arrival at Schiphol airport you can travel on to Emmen by train. You can plan your trip prior to arrival by checking the information on train schedules which are available on www.ns.nl. Train connections from Schiphol airport and all major cities to Emmen can be found on this website. The site provides the possibility to buy your train ticket online. Ticket machines are located in the arrival hall (next to the luggage belts) and in the central hallway after you pass customs. Follow the signs “to the trains”and look at the overhead information screens to find the track of departure. Travelling time from Schiphol airport to Emmen is approx. 2,5 hours. Buy a one-way ticket (‘enkele reis’) second class to Emmen. A ticket costs about 22 euro.

Emmen

10. Arrival and orientation in Emmen

46 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

10.3 From NS train station to Stenden University It is customary to provide your Stenden host student with details of your date and time of arrival. He/she will meet upon arrival at the train station and take you to your room. If you arrive without prior notification you can take a taxi to the student campus (approx. 15 Euro). On foot: Walk to the exit of the train station. Turn left on to the Boslaan. Walk to the traffic lights and go right. You are now on the Boermarkeweg. You walk straight ahead and pass the hospital on your left hand. You proceed straight on towards the traffic lights. At the traffic lights you cross the street and turn left. This is the Van Schaikweg. After approx. 200 meters you will see the parking lot and signs which will direct you toward the main entrance of Stenden University Emmen. (approximately 20 minutes) By bus: Take bus number 1, 43 or 45 to Angelslo.(bus stop is in front of the campus)

10.4 Making necessary arrangements Upon your arrival at Stenden, you have to go to the i study to make all necessary arrangements. See chapter 6. for arrangements you have to make upon arrival.

10.5 Accommodation It’s important that you have arranged your accommodation before arriving in Leeuwarden. We recommend you to arrive between Monday-Friday to be assured of a warm welcome. Weekend arrivals are not advised, as we cannot guarantee that you will receive your key upon arrival and it might be necessary to stay in a hotel for a few days on your own expense. www.hampshire-hotels.com Van schaikweg 55 Emmen T. 0591 642002

10.6 Orientation programme At the start of the semester all incoming international students participate in an introduction program. During the introduction the ins-and outs of studying at Stenden University are explained. The didactic approach of Stenden is explained and students participate in a short training in Problem Based Learning. Students receive instructions on the use of the ICT facilities (Stenden BlackBoard) and Stenden administrative program ProGress (registration for courses/exams and publication of results). Of course socialising and getting to know each other and your new surroundings are part

GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY 47

of the programme. The coordinator of your program will inform you about the details of the introduction programme. During the introduction there will be an opportunity to buy a bicycle so please make sure you have the cash available (approx. 60 - 80 Euro). Staying in the Netherlands means riding a bicycle! It’s not only smart, but it’s healthy, fun and environmental friendly.

10.7 Erasmus Student Host Team: For Erasmus Exchange students The Erasmus student host team of Stenden University Emmen welcomes Incoming Exchange students. Each exchange student is contacted by a Stenden host student some 2 months before arrival in Emmen. This host student is your tutor/buddy during your entire stay in Emmen and helps you to understand the educational organisation, the rules and regulations and of course introduce you to his/her social network.

Emmen

48 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

11. Discover Emmen 11.1 Bikes The best way to discover Emmen is on foot or by bike. Your tutor/buddy will help you to buy a bike. Several options are available to you but it is recommended that you buy a second hand bike of reasonable quality. Shops/Addresses where you can buy a 2nd hand bike: Theo Brüning Fietsen Weerdingerstraat 82 (between Tango petrol station and “Super DeBoer”) (subject to availability, prices may range from 50 - 75 Euro. The bikes can be returned at the end of the semester for ¤ 10) [email protected] 0591 613 585 Roelof in Bargeres: Sells second hand bikes for a really good price. He works at Stenden facility service. Tel: 0591-644113; Mobile: 06-40953528 Bike shop at Central Station (NS station): best period at the start of the academic year Bikes of former international students

11.2 Cultural highlights Emmen The highlight of the year is the Liberation festival in May. Some other festivals in Emmen: Kings’s day in April Full Colour Festival in August C’est la Vie in July Rabobank Gouden pijl in August Vlindermarkt: Every Tuesday in the summer holiday International Shanty and Seasonfestival in September

GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY 49

11.3 Hotspots Emmen Emmen zoo

Dierenpark Emmen: Hoofdstraat 18, Emmen

Museum

Veenpark: Berkenrode 4, Barger-compascum





Van Gogh huis: Van Goghstraat 1, Veenoord





Gevangenismuseum: Oude Gracht 1, Veenhuizen Utopolis: Westeind 70, Emmen

Theatre

Theater de Muzeval: Boermarkeweg 43, Emmen

Library

De openbare bibliotheek: Nooderplein 101, Emmen

Foods, drinks

De Zwetser: Marktplein 1, 7811, Emmen

and going out

De Brasserie: Hoofdstraat 53, Emmen





Markant: Marktplein 62, Emmen





Club Straq: Mondriaanplein 40, Emmen





Cafe Groothuis: Stationsstraat 75, Emmen

Emmen

Cinema

50 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

11.4 Sports and Fitness There is a large range of facilities including, the Parc Sandur water recreation area (420 ha); various recreation and fishing ponds; 3 camping facilities; 24 sports field complexes covering a total of more than 280 ha, including the 65-hectare Meerdijk sports complex that accommodates all outdoor sports; a competitive cycling track; 13 sports halls; 5 outdoor swimming pools; 3 indoor swimming pools, including the subtropical Aquarena that has both a spacious recreational area as well as a pool for instructional and competitive purposes; As Stenden student you can join HBO Sports. You buy a sport pass for a fixed amount that gives you access to a large number of sport facilities in Emmen. Please visit www.hbo-sport.nl for detailed information and become a member.

11.5 Shopping The city centre of Emmen features a wide variety of shops.

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12. Important practical matters Emmen 12.1 Emergency In case of an accident or an (urgent) emergency call the national emergency number 112. You will be asked if you need the police, fire brigade or ambulance. Hospital Emmen: Boermarkeweg 24 Emmen Police (no emergency): 0900 8844 Police office location Westeind 60 Emmen In the Netherlands you are legally required to carry a photo ID at all times. Please make sure you always carry your ID card with you.

12.2 Medical Help Unlike the practice in many countries you will always need to see a general physician first before you attend a specialist. Even if you think you need a specialist physician they will only see you if you have a referral note. For medical help you can make a phone call to: Medical Practice Dennenlaan Dr. Meijer (man) or Dr. Zandwijk (woman) Dennenlaan 56 7822 EL EMMEN Phone: 0591-611358 Appointments can be made every workday until 12:00 (thick 1) Please note, that it is necessary to make an appointment Dentist P. Patka Boermarkeweg 24 Emmen (0591 641696) Appointments can be made every workday until 15:30 During the weekend there is a medical centre at the hospital you can visit, next to the emergency room. Tel. 0900-1120112. Only go there if you are seriously ill, because this is only for emergencies.

52 GUIDE TO STENDEN UNIVERSITY

In case you take your AON insurance pass with you to the doctor, the doctor will declare the invoice directly at AON. For (other) medical expenses you can use the declaration form. Please fill out this form and send it to the Insurance Company as mentioned. Be sure to make copies because letters do get lost in the mail. You can get a declaration form at the i study or you can download them from www.myaon.nl

12.3 Overview of important contacts in Emmen Who/ what

address

General emergency number

Contact details 112

Police

Westeind 60

0900 8844

Medical Practice Dennenlaan

Dennenlaan 56

(0591) 61 13 58

Dr. Meijer ♂ or Dr.

Zandwijk ♀

Doctors Office Emergency after 17:00 hrs and during weekends

0900 – 11 20 112

Hospital

Boermarkeweg 60

(0591) 69 19 11

Dentist Patka

Boermarkeweg 24

(0591) 64 16 96

Town Hall

Raadhuisplein 1

(0591) 68 55 55

GGD/Health Department

Parallelweg 36

(0592) 37 19 53

Electricity Company Essent

www.essent.nl 0800-0330

Cable Company UPC

www.upc.nl 0900- 22 33 777

Rabobank

Wilhelminastraat 47

(0591) 68 06 80

ABN-AMRO

Baander 32

(0591) 68 84 03

ING Bank

Marktplein 150

(0591) 66 48 03

Hampshire hotel

Van Schaikweg 54

www.hampshire-hotels.com (0591) 64 20 02 www.roomemmen.nl [email protected] www.housinganywhere.com

Housing Anywhere i study

Stenden University

(0591) 85 31 92

Nynke Vink (Counselor) Alie Bal (Counselor)

Stenden University

(0591) 85 32 30

Linda Coenen (Coördinator Erasmus)

Stenden University

(0591) 85 31 00

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13. About the DUTCH Since cultures differ it is a good thing to learn a few things about the Dutch culture and habits. Maybe some Dutch habits will seem strange to you, but in general the Dutch are quite easy going. This chapter will help you to get started. We’re all equal In general the Dutch are easy going when it comes to formalities. They more or less see and treat everyone equally. Maybe you will be taken aback a little by the fact that especially in the academic world, the relationship between students and the academic staff is usually informal in the way that they address each other. Hello and good-bye When they get together friends will usually say ‘Hi’ to each other and sometimes shake hands. If the friend concerned is female, you may add three kisses on the cheeks usually starting on the right side. Of course, if you do not feel comfortable doing it this way, you can get by with just shaking hands. Everything according to plan The Dutch lead very planned lives. At 10.30 a.m. they drink coffee. Lunch (usually sandwiches) is around 1 p.m. At approximately 3 p.m. they drink coffee or tea. At 6 p.m. most people eat their hot evening meal. At 8 p.m. they watch the news. At approximately 11 p.m. most Dutch people go to bed. The Weather The Dutch spend a lot of time talking about the weather. Many conversations begin with: ‘Nice weather isn’t it?’ Or: ‘My God, it just won’t clear up, will it?’ If you want to strike up a conversation with a stranger, talk about the weather: you can’t go wrong. Many people complain about the weather, but most Dutch wouldn’t want to live in another climate.

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Ali Khan Niazi from Pakistan ‘’Stenden is fun and living in the Netherlands is superb. Still it would be wise not to expect too much. For your own good, I have the following pieces of advice for you all’’ 1. Never trust the three W’s here: ‘Weather, Work and Weed’ 2. If you wish to integrate into the Dutch Society, better remember these three words by heart: ‘Gratis (For Free), Korting (Discount) and Actie (Action)’ 3. Never refuse a generous invitation by the Dutch, but bear in mind; They won’t let you walk away without paying your own drinks.

Punctuality Dutch people often keep track of the exact time. In general, they are punctual. If you are late, this irritates them very much. The Dutch equate not being on time with not being trustworthy; they can’t count on you. A person who is late for a job interview will not be hired. Tip: always be on time. In the Netherlands, it is better to be ten minutes early than five minutes late. Coffee Coffee is an essential part of Dutch life. When the Dutch invite you to their homes, they often promptly serve you a cup of coffee or tea. Is this a hint that you should not stay too long? Quite the contrary: In the Netherlands, a steaming cup of coffee is a hearty welcome. With each cup your host or hostess will offer you a cookie – one cookie, mind you - after which the lid goes back on the cookie tin. The Dutch see nothing uncongenial whatsoever in this ritual. Usually you will be offered a second cup of coffee, again with one cookie. When two Dutch people have something to discuss, a typical remark is: ‘Shall we have some coffee?’. This same expression is also used when the beverage is not coffee, but tea. Dropping by unannounced The Dutch almost never visit each other without making an ‘appointment’ first. This includes close friends. People almost never drop by unannounced. The same rule applies to family: first you call them (‘How would it be if we came by today?’). If your visit would be inconvenient, your host will simply tell you so: ‘No, today isn’t a good

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day. Come by another time if you like’. The Dutch do not consider this rude or blunt, but ‘honest’. In these situations, honesty is considered more important than tact. The Dutch also like to know exactly when you intend to arrive. That gives them time to tidy up the room and have a steaming cup of coffee ready when you ring the doorbell. Getting straight to the point When the Dutch have to discuss a difficult topic, their usual approach is to plunge right into it. They hardly even take the time to sit and relax. They do not gradually work up to the difficult subject, but come straight to the point. To you this probably makes a blunt and tactless impression.

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14. Cultural adjustment When adjusting to life in a new country, we refer to a strange phenomenon called ‘culture shock’ If you’ve ever had an electric shock, you know what a ‘surprise’ that is to your system. Finding your way through all of your physical, mental and emotional changes is part of the challenge of living abroad and coping with culture shock. Of course, each person’s experience is unique, but in general students will go through three phases: the so-called honeymoon phase, the I-hate-this-country-phase and finally the adjustment phase. During the first phase you will probably like and feel excited about everything you see, hear and experience. In the second phase, your real life starts in the new environment and this can cause a state of shock. You will probably feel quite negative and reject it in favour of your own at home that feels so much more comfortable. During the third phase, you slowly learn to function under the new conditions, you become more selfconfident and you will integrate into your new social network. You will acknowledge the cultural differences and see the benefits of living and studying in Holland. If you notice the signs of culture shock such as feelings of sadness, loneliness, homesickness or if you start to question your decision to move to this place, rest assured that things will change for the better. Try go get involved in the social life and become active in your new environment. It does not matter whether you engage in sports, art, music or anything else you are interested in. As long as it is something you like doing and as long as you get to meet people. Also, remember that you are not alone, nor do you have to go through this alone. You have your fellow international students, Dutch students and the staff of Stenden University: your teachers, student-counselor and the student-advisors. Do not hesitate to contact them.

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15. Dutch for beginners Dutch and English are closely related languages. In general, The Dutch language can be learnt quickly and easily. You can help yourself to learn the language quickly by using it often. The one challenge you’ll come across is that the Dutch, in trying to help you, will quickly resort to English. Be patient and continue to use Dutch. If you must, don’t be afraid to ask them to help you practice your Dutch, they’ll be glad to do so.

Siti Nurkhassanah from Indonesia ‘’It felt like a dream my first day at Stenden. I stepped in a ‘strange and really clean building’ with modern appliances. I felt I was too small and dark among the taller people with their golden hair and colorful eyes. It was raining and I wondered why all people were not afraid of the rain here. It was a bit scary but intriguing.’’

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Dutch words/phrases to practice hello

= hallo or hoi

good morning

= goedemorgen

good evening

= goedenavond

good night

= goedenacht

goodbye

= tot ziens

please

= alstublieft

thank you

= dank u wel

how are you?

= hoe gaat het?

what is your name?

= hoe heet jij?

cup of coffee/thea

= kopje koffie/thee

what is the time?

= hoe laat is het?

how much does that cost?

= hoe duur is dat?

where can I find ……?

= waar kan ik …… vinden?

I like you

= Ik vind je leuk

Bicycle

= fiets

food and beverages

= eten en drinken

classroom

= lokaal

teacher

= docent

dentist

= tandarts

fire brigade

= brandweer

first aid

= eerste hulp (ehbo)

general practitioner/doctor

= huisarts

hospital

= ziekenhuis

pharmacy

= apotheek

police station

= politiebureau

store

= winkel

ATM

= pinautomaat

chemists / drugstore

= drogist

cinema

= bioscoop

library

= bibliotheek

post office

= postkantoor

public transport

= openbaar vervoer

ticket (bus /train)

= kaartje (bus/ trein)

city hall

= gemeentehuis

If you want to practice your Dutch online visit the website www.learndutch.org

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No rights can be derived from the content of this handbook. The information in this handbook was checked carefully before printing but may be subject to changes.

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